To monitor and evaluate a local government’s or councillor’s performance and compliance, or whether it is in the public interest to take remedial action in relation to the local government or councillor, the department’s chief executive may—
(a) examine the information contained in the local government’s records and operations; or
(b) otherwise carry out an investigation into—(i) the local government’s or councillor’s performance and compliance; or(ii) whether it is in the public interest to take the remedial action.